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 Bach Flower Remedies explained By Ellen Farrell Is it a spray? (NO!) A tea? (NO!) Do you smell it? (NO!) Does it make people like classical music? Well, no, but it may help a person attain a calm and clear disposition in just the way a Bach bourreé might. While not a replacement for medical care, Bach Flower Essences are similar to homeopathy — using natural plant and flower-based substances to affect the body’s subtle energies. The difference is that the essences comprehensively treat states of disharmony rather than physical symptoms. Also, there can be no overdose, no side effects and no method of treatment with which they are incompatible. Bach Flower Essences, also called remedies, act on a “disharmony of the soul,” according to Mechthild Scheffer’s book “Bach Flower Therapy.” She quotes a 1934 writing by Dr. Edward Bach, the homeopathic physician who developed the flower remedies, stating that one’s energy is harmonized, not by “attacking the disease” but by changing the outlook so that the disharmony is released and replaced with “the beautiful vibrations of our Higher Nature.” Now, before you run screaming, “Get me away from this New Age bunk!,” consider that Bach’s work took place in the early 20th century. In 1930, he was a highly regarded bacteriologist and homeopathic physician. He gave up his London practice to continue his research, which culminated in the development of 38 remedies and the well-known Rescue Remedy (a combination of five remedies, helpful in situations of trauma and panic). Many positive results have been observed by this writer in working with these remedies for more than 17 years, despite initial skepticism. Each of the remedies addresses a specific state and brings balance and clarity. Remedies address such issues as fear, control, career, exhaustion, confidence, anxiety, trauma, despair, loss, guilt, grief, transition and many more. A self-test to determine your needs is available at health-food stores. To learn more about it, check out the Web site, www.bachessences.com. Scheffer also recommends Bach’s book, “Heal Thyself.” However, Scheffer’s book is the definitive guide, giving the background, description and supportive measures of each remedy, as well as how to mix your own personal formula. She proposes that “it can only be a matter of time” before these subtle energies will be measurable as advancements in molecular chemistry and atomic physics may lead to a greater scientific understanding. Meanwhile, double-blind trials have revealed that the emotional tones of individual essences have been correctly identified. As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “I believe in the existence of the material world as the expression of the spiritual, and I await the insight which our advancing knowledge of material laws shall furnish.” Until then, continued exploration of these fascinating, safe and helpful remedies is recommended. Farrell is a counselor in the health and wellness department. She has extensive training and experience practicing complementary approaches to healing since 1987 and working in the nutrition industry. |
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